Debating (Irish)

The introduction of Irish Debating (Díospóireacht Ghaeilge) at Catholic University School has added a powerful new dimension to student life, offering a platform where young speakers can express their opinions, refine their Irish, and grow in confidence.

This extra-curricular activity is open to all students, from fluent Gaeilgeoirí to those eager to improve their spoken Irish in a supportive and engaging environment. Debating in Irish helps students build communication and critical thinking skills, while deepening their understanding of culture, identity, and contemporary issues—all through our native language.

In 2023, CUS proudly entered a team in Comórtas Díospóireachta an Phiarsaigh, a prestigious national Irish debating competition. Mark O’Callaghan, Shane O’Reilly, Louis Murphy, and Andrew Molloy took part, debating a range of lively and relevant motions. The team hosted the first round of the competition right here in the school library, debating the motion “Ba cheart dúinn fáil réidh le héadaí scoile.” They placed third in a highly competitive round—just missing out, but gaining a free pass to the regional final in Coláiste Belvedere.

There, they argued the merits of rural life with passion and preparation. While they didn’t take home the title, the team described it as a wonderful learning experience, growing more confident in their spoken Irish and picking up countless new phrases and expressions along the way.

As Mark O’Callaghan (3rd Year) reflected:
“Bhí muid níos muiníní ag caint as Gaeilge agus d’fhoghlaim muid a lán nathanna cainte nua… Mholfainn d’aon duine páirt a ghlacadh i ndíospóireachtaí Gaeilge. Is rud fiúntach é gan aon agó.”

Thanks to the dedication and guidance of Iníon McNamara and Múinteoir Murphy, the Irish debating programme is already thriving—and looks set to grow even more in the years ahead.

Whether you’re debating the big issues or simply want to improve your Gaeilge in a fun, meaningful way, Díospóireacht Ghaeilge at CUS is a place where your voice—and your language—can truly shine.e it a try, debating at CUS is a place where ideas thrive, voices grow, and students learn to think—and speak—for themselves.